Public transport users urged to shop around as Translink fares rise by 2.9 per cent

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BUS and train fares are set to increase again after Translink announced it is putting up prices by 2.9 per cent overall.

Public transport users have been urged to shop around to find their best value ticket for journeys.

Scott Kennerley, of the Consumer Council said "no one wants to see fares increase" and a lot of people "still buy single or return fares in cash".

"But if you are a regular traveller there are better ticket options available," he said.

"For example, a passenger travelling on Metro in the Belfast City Zone will pay £2 in cash per journey.

"The same journey using a multi journey card will be £1.45 after the fare review, a saving of 55p per journey or £5.50 over 10 journeys.

"A passenger travelling on the Goldline 212 service between Derry/Londonderry and Belfast will pay £19 for a return ticket if paying by cash. The same journey will only cost £13.80 using a Smartlink card, a saving of £5.20 on one return journey.

"... Our advice is to contact Translink and make sure you are getting the best deal.”

Translink Group Chief Executive Chris Conway stressed that the increase, which will come in on Monday March 26,is a below inflation rise and some prices will remain the same.

"With more people travelling with us over the last year and by keeping our costs down, we have been able to keep fare increases low," he said.